Swedish Visiting Cake, known for its simplicity and delightful almond flavor, is a quick and easy dessert that you can whip up when guests are on their way. The cake is tender, moist, and has a lovely almond aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes. The addition of a sweet almond topping gives it a delightful crunch and extra burst of flavor.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb.
- 2 eggs: Provides structure and richness to the cake.
- 1 teaspoon almond extract: Gives the cake its signature almond flavor.
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and enhances the overall flavor.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: Forms the base of the cake, providing structure.
- ½ cup butter, melted: Adds moisture and richness, giving the cake a tender texture.
For the Almond Topping:
- 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the topping and helps create a smooth texture.
- 2 egg whites: Adds a light, airy texture to the topping, helping it set and crisp up as it bakes.
- 1 cup sliced almonds: Provides a crunchy texture and an additional almond flavor to the cake.
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C): Grease a 9-inch cake pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix the sugar and eggs: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and eggs until the mixture is well combined, pale, and slightly thickened. This helps to dissolve the sugar and incorporate air into the batter, resulting in a light cake.
- Add the extracts: Stir in the almond extract and vanilla extract, mixing until fully incorporated. The almond extract will be the star of the flavor, while the vanilla adds a subtle undertone.
- Add the salt and flour: Gradually add the salt and flour to the egg mixture, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
- Incorporate the melted butter: Pour in the melted butter and fold it into the batter until smooth. The butter will add richness and moisture to the cake.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan: Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly in the pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake the cake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be set and slightly springy to the touch.
Step 3: Prepare the Almond Topping
- Make the topping while the cake bakes: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and egg whites until smooth and slightly frothy. The egg whites will help the topping set and crisp up during baking.
- Add the sliced almonds: Fold the sliced almonds into the sugar mixture until they are evenly coated. The almonds will create a crunchy, flavorful topping for the cake.
Step 4: Add the Topping and Finish Baking
- Spread the almond topping over the partially baked cake: After the cake has baked for 25-30 minutes, carefully remove it from the oven. Spread the almond topping evenly over the top of the cake, making sure to cover the entire surface.
- Continue baking: Return the cake to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy. The cake should be fully baked through, and the almonds should be lightly toasted.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Cool the cake: Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. This will help the topping set and make it easier to remove from the pan.
- Transfer the cake to a wire rack: After 10 minutes, carefully run a knife around the edges of the cake to loosen it from the pan. Invert the cake onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve and enjoy: Once the cake is cool, slice it into wedges and serve. The cake can be enjoyed as is, or with a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Tips for Success:
- Don’t overmix the batter: When adding the flour, fold it in gently to avoid developing too much gluten, which can make the cake tough.
- Use fresh almonds: Freshly sliced almonds will have the best flavor and texture. Toast them lightly before adding to the topping for an even deeper flavor.
- Let the cake cool slightly before adding the topping: This helps the topping adhere better to the cake and prevents it from sinking into the batter.
Swedish Visiting Cake is a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Its simplicity and rich almond flavor make it a favorite among those who enjoy traditional Scandinavian desserts. Whether you’re baking it for guests or simply to enjoy with a cup of coffee, this cake is sure to impress. The crunchy almond topping adds a wonderful texture contrast to the soft, tender cake, making every bite a delightful experience. Serve it as a dessert, a snack, or even a breakfast treat, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this Swedish classic.
